**Cyprus and Greece Enhance Economic Ties Through Joint Investment Initiatives**
Nicosia, Cyprus – In a bid to bolster economic diplomacy and attract foreign investment, Cyprus and Greece are embarking on a collaborative effort to explore opportunities in third markets. This initiative was highlighted during a recent meeting between Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos and Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Harry Theoharis in Nicosia. The discussions took place during Theoharis' two-day visit to Cyprus, which occurred from September 14 to 15.
Theoharis, who oversees economic diplomacy and extroversion for Greece, engaged in talks that emphasized the importance of strengthening business ties between the two nations. Kombos noted that the discussions extended beyond bilateral relations, focusing on how businesses from Cyprus and Greece could jointly penetrate international markets.
"The talks were centered on strengthening economic diplomacy, investments, and joint business extroversion in third markets," Kombos stated in a post-meeting update on his personal social media account. This strategic approach aims to create a unified front for both nations as they seek to expand their economic influence globally.
The economic relationship between Cyprus and Greece is already significant, with trade in goods reaching approximately €3.3 billion in 2025. Greece remains a crucial trading partner for Cyprus, as highlighted by Energy Minister Michalis Damianos prior to his own meeting with Theoharis. This existing trade framework provides a solid foundation for further collaboration and investment opportunities.
During the visit, Kombos and Theoharis also reaffirmed the strategic cooperation between their countries. They exchanged insights on regional developments and discussed Greece's upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, which it will assume from July to December 2027. This presidency will follow Lithuania's term and is part of a coordinated 18-month presidency trio that includes Ireland and Lithuania. The three countries will work together to set long-term priorities for the Council during this period.
Theoharis' agenda in Cyprus included meetings with key figures such as Energy Minister Damianos and Marios Tannousis, the chief executive of Invest Cyprus. Additionally, he held discussions with Stavros Stavrou, president of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), and Joseph Joseph, president of the Cyprus-Greece Business Association. These meetings are designed to identify new areas for cooperation, support businesses aiming to expand internationally, and create further investment and trade opportunities between the two nations.
The collaborative efforts between Cyprus and Greece reflect a broader strategy to enhance their economic standing in the global market. By focusing on joint ventures and shared business interests, both countries aim to leverage their strengths and resources to attract investment and expand their economic footprint beyond their borders.
As the partnership progresses, it is expected that more initiatives will emerge, fostering closer ties between the business communities of Cyprus and Greece and ultimately benefiting both economies. The ongoing dialogue and commitment to collaboration signify a promising future for economic relations between the two nations.